I try to use filtered water when possible, but sometimes, bottled water and convenience drinks are just easier. However, I usually wash out the bottle with warm water and soap (sometimes I put them in the dishwasher). Then I fill them back up with filtered water and put the fridge.

Reused plastic bottles are easy to grab out of the fridge on your way out the door. I also do not feel bad if I leave them somewhere (like I would an expensive reusable container). However, there are a few warnings you should heed about plastic bottles. Make sure to recycle them once they have been in contact with heat. Heat breaks down the plastic, potentially releasing chemicals into the liquid. If I leave my plastic bottles in the hot car, I do not use them again.

Bonus tip: Fill up your washed milk, juice, and any other large plastic bottle with water. Place in freezer and use in your cooler for a cheaper and better way to keep food and drink cool.

Tired of trying to get the dried, yucky food off the inside of the microwave? If you heat a cup of water (in a microwave safe container) in the microwave to boiling, the food particles will come off with a wipe of a sponge. This method is not only quick and easy but environmentally and budget friendly too. No need to buy harsh-chemicals and you can reuse the sponge.

Here’s a bonus tip: Clean and disinfect the sponge by rinsing with water, then microwave on high for 2 minutes.

What an exciting time to celebrate Earth Day! Forty years ago, when the first Earth Day was officially celebrated, few people knew or even cared about the state of the earth. Even a decade ago, when I received my Environmental Science degree, I was often ridiculed for my views on being kinder to the earth. Today, more people are recognizing that to stay healthy and save money, we must find new ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle.

Reducing our consumption (and our waste) is the number one way to help the Earth and frankly, our own pocket books. By saving energy, buying less, driving less, and using less, we are conserving our natural resources and saving money at the same time. The next best way to reduce your footprint on the planet is to reuse.

Reusing items to save money and the earth is somewhat of a family tradition. My parents were frugal and aware of their impact on the environment. Our family found ways to throw less in the trash by finding new uses for items or reuse items when possible. Finally, when all else fails, recycle.

Recycling, although toted as an easy way to save the environment, is your last resort. Recycling costs money, increases carbon emissions and gas, uses chemicals to breakdown the material, and often has unwanted by-products. As technology finds new and cheaper ways to recycle, this option will increase in value, but will never surpass the need to reduce and reuse.

In honor of Earth Day, and in the name of saving money, I will be posting a new Eco-friendly and budget friendly tip each day this week. I can’t wait to share with you all the easy and budget friendly ways to celebrate Earth Day EVERYDAY. By taking care of the earth, we take care of ourselves and our children. Namaste.

When we encounter hardships in our lives, it is easy to get discouraged. We ask questions like, “why me?” And make statements like, ” I never get what I want.” Instead, try asking, “how can I use this circumstance to propel me forward?” Make statements like, “Everything that happens is exactly how it should be at this moment. I will use this experience to get what I want.”

In fact, stress and charged emotion can accomplish miraculous tasks and overcome the worst of fears. We are living in an amazing time of both hardship and renewal of both loss and faith. I challenge you to rise to the occasion. Use the loss of a job as a springboard into the career you always wanted. Use the loss of a house as a fresh start where new opportunities exist. Use the loss of a loved one as a reminder to live each day to the fullest, because you never know which day will be your last.

I know that times are tough for many of us right now. It is only a reminder that we are all one. We are all living in the same world, using the same resources, created by the same God. Our struggles unite us. We are not alone in this world, we are all one. Namaste.

“Begin doing what you want to do now. We are not living in eternity. We have only this moment, sparkling like a star in our hand – and melting like a snow flake” – M.B. Ray

Part of living a balanced life involves cooking and eating nutritious and filling food. People often find it hard to find the time to cook, leaving a trail of takeout and frozen food wrappers. Fortunately, there is hope. My family has been making a version of the following chili for a few years now. It is a little spicy, but not too spicy for our toddler. It is also easy, economical, and quick. See below the recipe for tips on how to make it a little healthier. We made it tonight. It went perfect with the blizzard.

For a healthier version: I usually buy at least 85% lean ground beef, but ground turkey would add less fat and calories to the meal. I usually leave the grease from the meat in the pot, however; you can drain the liquid after cooking the meat for less fat and calories. In addition, substitution of fresher ingredients along with organic ingredients, will increase the nutritional value of the meal.

I feel like I have never been busier. My toddler and Project Do What You Love are keeping me on my toes. Things can get stressful but at least my work is gratifying. I am raising my own child and making strides toward my goals. Here are some updates on what I have been doing lately.

True U Voice- Where your vision and values become your voice: I have settled on a name for my business, am working up a website, and have a vendor show to attend tomorrow. At first, I will be working out of my home, helping small businesses market through social media, blogs, websites, and networking.

Since May, I have been the Editor for the Paradise Community Association. I publish a monthly newsletter and keep the blog and Facebook group up to date. In addition, I manage the Facebook and Twitter account for the Daily Grind of Upper Chesapeake. Most recently, I have been consulting a holistic practitioner in the art of marketing oneself via social media. I am thankful for all these opportunities to sharpen my skills, and figure out where my talents and passions align.

Heed.com– contributing writer: This blog started with the dream of writing again. I have written 3 articles

Daily Grind : Unwind

to date. I am honored to be apart of an organization dedicated to expressing the multi-ethnic perspective of a current generation, with a spiritual and clean-edge message. Check out some of my articles here.

Finally, I want to thank everyone for their continued support. You can count on me to be honest and down to earth. If you have not yet, check me out on Facebook and Twitter. Much Joy and Love to You! Namaste.